Variety of equipment is used in the auto transportation industry, each with a specific purpose and advantage. This guide provides a description of some of the most common types of trucks and trailer used. Modern technology and development aims to make shipping cars safer and more economical. Newer trailers feature “straps” to hold the cars in place, while traditionally chains were used.

1 Car Hauler

The flatbed is the top choice for local transportation with distances less than 100 miles. 1-car haulers provide unmatched flexibility when handling inoperable cars and maneuvering in tight places. Also called roll-backs, these units are most likely to be seen on the freeways responding to accidents and can be used to load cars into containers or onto bigger trailers. Most are equipped with chains but few utilize straps to protect the vehicles from damage.

Flatbed Tow-Truck

CONS:

Lack of Flexibility When Loading with

Complex and Difficult to Load and Unload

PROS:

Reasonable Acquisition Cost and Maintenance

Suitable for Long Distances Hauls & Oversize Cargo

2-3 Car Haulers

The most affordable options for operators that requires the smallest capital to get started. The biggest disadvantage is the limited earning potential. Also due to the fact that most trailers are pulled by 1 ton dually trucks (Chevy, Dodge or Ford) commercial driver license is not required.

3-Car Wedge Trailer

PROS:

Affordable & Easy to Use Equipments

No need for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

CONS:

Limited Capacity With Limited Earning Potential

Difficult to Maneuver due to Length

4-6 Car Haulers

One of the most versatile type of trailers and come in many configurations. This configuration is usually used by regional haulers for whom the extra capacity would go unused. The smaller size provides added maneuverability to the driver as well as ability to take larger and higher paying units, like full size vans and oversized trucks.

5-Car Hauler

PROS:

Easy to Load and Fairly Compact Dimensions

Flexibility to Load Oversized Vehicles

CONS:

Medium Capacity Restricts Earning Potential

Difficult to Maneuver due to Length

7-8 Car Haulers

One of the most flexible type of trailer because it doesn’t require any modifications to the truck but is as simple as attaching a trailer. This is ofter the preferred method for owner-operators as it gives them the flexibility of quickly attaching a different trailer.

8-Car Hauler

PROS:

Reasonable Acquisition Cost and Maintenance

Suitable for Long Distances Hauls & Oversize Cargo

CONS:

Lack of Flexibility When Loading with

Complex and Difficult to Load and Unload

9-10 Car Haulers

One the most common car haulers requires special modification to the truck. Normally 3 cars are placed on the truck while the remainder are loaded onto the trailer.

10-Car Hauler

PROS:

High Earning Potential

Maximum Configuration

CONS:

Very High Initial Cost

Steep Learning Curve for Operators

10+ Car Haulers

Although possible it is extremely difficult to ship more than 10 cars on one truck.

11-Car Hauler

PROS:

Highest Earning Potential When Hauling 11 cars

Maximum Capacity for Small Cars

CONS:

Expensive Specialized Equipment

Difficult to Operate with High Damage Probability

Enclosed Car Haulers

Providing advantages like additional security and personalized care at marginally higher cost. Because some enclosed trailers offer an option for a lift-gate, shipping cars that are low to the ground is much easier with less likelihood of damage. Enclosed trailers also carry much higher cargo coverage to protect the cars that are transported.See our Open vs. Enclosed page for additional information.